Photovoltaic Systems

    Photovoltaic systems make it possible to transform, in a simple and direct way, sunlight into electricity. They can be installed on roofs, terraces, balconies, grounds, facades, roofs, and garages. Basically on any surface, preferably south-facing.

Photovoltaic systems can be classified into two categories:

The autonomous systems (Off-Grid) also called stand-alone or island, accumulate the energy produced in one or more batteries allowing them to feed isolated users, not reached by the electricity grid (mountain huts, beach houses, campers, boats, gardens, streets, avenues, illuminated signs, etc.).

The advantages of going off-grid are as follows:

 Independence: Off-grid energy systems allow users to have self-sufficiency in power supply, free from the limitations of the traditional electrical grid. This is particularly important for people living in remote areas, mountains, or islands.

Utilization of renewable energy: Off-grid systems typically rely on renewable energy sources such as solar power, wind energy, or hydropower. This means the system can harness environmentally friendly and infinitely renewable energy sources to meet energy needs, reducing dependence on conventional coal or fossil fuel-based electricity generation.

Energy autonomy: Off-grid systems liberate users from reliance on the public grid, ensuring that they are not affected by power outages, voltage fluctuations, or grid failures. This energy autonomy provides a stable and reliable power supply.

Energy efficiency and sustainability: Off-grid systems often encourage energy conservation and environmental preservation. As users rely on limited energy resources, they tend to prioritize energy efficiency and conservation, reducing wastage and promoting sustainable energy practices.

Flexibility and portability: Off-grid systems can be relatively easily installed in different locations, offering high flexibility and portability. This is particularly advantageous for situations that require frequent relocation or temporary power supply, such as camping, outdoor work, or emergency response.

It is important to note that off-grid systems also come with challenges and limitations, including higher initial investment costs, fluctuating energy supply, and limited energy storage capacity. Therefore, when considering an off-grid system, it is necessary to carefully evaluate individual needs, feasibility, and economic factors.

The systems connected to the grid (On-Grid), currently more widespread, transfer the energy produced in excess to the electricity grid (Enel) in exchange for a contribution (Scambio il posto). With a grid-connected system, it will be possible to self-consume the energy produced for free and to exchange the excess produced with the grid (or sell it).

The advantages of grid-connected (on-grid) systems are as follows:

Stable power supply: Grid-connected systems can access a stable electricity supply from the public grid. The public grid typically managed and maintained by professional utility companies, provides continuous and reliable power, ensuring that users' electricity needs are met.

Backup power source: When the energy production of a grid-connected system is insufficient to meet the demand, additional electricity can be drawn from the public grid. This backup power source ensures an uninterrupted power supply, which is particularly important in high-energy consumption or critical power needs.

Energy complementarity: Grid-connected systems allow for the injection of surplus energy generated back into the public grid. For example, if a system generates excess electricity from solar photovoltaic panels, users can sell the surplus power to the utility company, enabling energy complementarity and feedback, contributing to energy conservation and cost reduction.

Economic benefits: Compared to off-grid systems, grid-connected systems have lower initial investment costs. Users do not need to purchase expensive energy storage devices or bear the independent maintenance and management costs associated with off-grid systems. Grid-connected systems are easier to install, use, and maintain, resulting in lower operational costs.

Social contribution: Grid-connected systems support the balance and stable operation of the entire energy system. By injecting renewable energy into the public grid, the demand for conventional coal or fossil fuel-based electricity generation can be reduced, promoting the use of sustainable energy and environmental protection.

It is important to note that grid-connected systems rely on the public grid. In certain situations, such as grid failures or power outages, the system may not be able to provide electricity. Additionally, fluctuations in electricity prices and changes in energy policies can also impact the economic viability of grid-connected systems. Therefore, when choosing a grid-connected system, factors such as reliability, economic feasibility, and energy policies need to be carefully considered.